This tour takes you to the untouched tribal groups in South Sudan, which include the Topesa and the Jie. These tribes have lived in the region’s wilderness for thousands of years. The four-day South Sudan tour to the Topesa and Jie villages is meant for tourists interested in visiting South Sudan’s tribal villages in a short trip close to Juba.
These tribes are located near the Karamojong cluster, which includes the Karamojong people of Uganda, the Nyangatom people of southwestern Ethiopia, and the Turkana people of Kenya. Their entire life revolves around livestock such as cows, sheep, camels, donkeys, and goats, but cattle are the most valued.
To be considered wealthy, one must have many cattle. For example, young boys are first given goats and sheep, encouraging them to work for cattle. As they grow into manhood or reach their youth stage, they are given a cow to take care of or even own.
The Topesa are always unsettled. In past years, they have been involved in cattle-raiding wars with their neighbors, competing for grazing land and water sources. Despite their involvement in wars, they also pan for gold and other precious minerals.
This may suggest they have embraced civilization, but this is not entirely true, as they still wear little clothing and make piercings on their bodies. The Jie dress like the Topesa, with women decorating themselves with beads while leaving their breasts uncovered. Meanwhile, men scarify their arms, chests, and faces, which is considered a form of art.
The journey to these villages begins with:
- Day One, which is your arrival in South Sudan. You need documents permitting you to tour the country, and for tourists outside East Africa—such as those from Europe, Asia, or America—a visa is required.
- Day Two is the official travel day to the Topesa-Jie land. Upon arrival, you are welcomed and introduced to part of their lifestyle.
- Day Three is when the full experience takes place. You will tour their livestock, for example, learning how they graze and take care of them. You will also explore their villages, admiring their grass-thatched houses and the beautiful green vegetation covering the landscape. During this time, tourists pause to take pictures, capturing these wonderful memories.
- The tour ends with Day Four, when you set off for Juba City and wait for your flight back home.
Fly with the best tour company—us! We assure you that you will have a memorable stay in South Sudan during your Topesa-Jie tour.
